THREE CITIES SHOULD GET FAIRGROUNDS SAY

We were pleased that U-T San Diego wrote an editorial in favor of the proposal for local control of the fairgrounds. However the U-T didn’t quite get the legal issues correct (“Regarding local control of the fairgrounds,” April 19). While it is true that new legislation would be required to add one or more municipalities to the proposed JPA membership, the actual governance board created by a JPA can consist of any membership desired by the agencies forming the JPA. So, it could consist of any portion of the fairgrounds board, the county Board of Supervisors and any municipal or other public members of the county of San Diego or fair board’s choosing.

We also believe that the U-T’s support for local governance doesn’t quite go far enough. The fair board, with its nine members appointed by the governor, has for many decades been very unresponsive to local concerns. We have been encouraged by the direction that the new board has taken, and were pleased to hear of its proposal to the county for a new Joint Powers Authority governance model that would include the Board of Supervisors. However, this proposal doesn’t go far enough to ensure a representation of local interests. Adding five votes to a nine-vote board continues to give the governor an overriding say in the operation of the fairgrounds. The five votes from our county supervisors could never overrule a decision made by the governor’s appointees. It just makes sense that the three cities (Del Mar, Solana Beach and San Diego) that either directly or indirectly provide support services to the fairgrounds each have a seat at the table. Adding three additional seats to the JPA still gives a majority vote to the governor’s appointees.

Let’s make this a lasting partnership that works. We all receive benefits from the fair and enjoy its many entertainment, educational and cultural activities. It is in every one of our interests that this wonderful regional asset enjoy a productive future in harmony with its neighbors. Giving local government a seat at the table will lead to better communication, cooperation, and efficiency. What can be wrong with that?